Concerns as fracking moves closer for Doncaster

A number of areas across Doncaster have been made the subject of fracking licences that will allow exploration of gas and oil in the borough.

A large proportion of the borough – including areas such as Wheatley, Balby, Scawthorpe, Tickhill and Intake – have been opened up by the Government for exploration under the latest wave of licences announced this week.

The licences could pave the way for more controversial hydraulic fracturing, known as fracking, to take place in the borough.

The new licence, authorised as part of the 14th raft of licences authorised by the Government, has provisionally been awarded to IGas.

But the necessary planning and regulatory consents from Doncaster Council will still be required before any development can take place.

Mayor of Doncaster Ros Jones voiced her concerns over the possibility of fracking in Doncaster.

She said: “I am concerned about the government’s plans for fracking in Doncaster.”

The Mayor added: “On the basis of the information currently presented to me, my initial view is that fracking should not go ahead in Doncaster, or elsewhere in Britain, until we can be sure it is safe and won’t present any unacceptable risks.”

Other parts of South Yorkshire, including Barnsley and Sheffield, have also been made the subject of licences this week.

Members of Frack Free South Yorkshire have previously taken to the streets of Doncaster to protest over plans to build an exploratory well.

The group has pledged to oppose the latest wave of licenses awarded this week.

n For more information on fracking please visit: www.gov.uk/guidance/oil-and-gas-licensing-rounds